Welcome to the Entrepreneur Academy—an immersive program for 2nd year GHC students ready to build a real company, not just a business plan.
In this program, you won’t be starting from scratch—you’ll be given a vetted business concept and work alongside your fellow students to take it from concept to launch. From day one, you’ll step into the role of a founder—collaborating, building, and making real decisions that shape the business.
You’ll learn directly from industry mentors across the country, gaining real-world insight as you navigate the fast-moving world of startups. These are experienced founders and operators who have built companies themselves—and are ready to help you do the same.
From market validation to product development to investor pitching, you’ll experience every stage of the startup journey. At the end of the program, be a true co-founder and shareholder with the opportunity to continue as Founder employees of the company you helped build.
Ready to graduate college with a job you created!
Program at a Glance
- Length: 12 months (September 2026 to August 2027)
- Location: GHC Aberdeen Campus
- Instructor: Omey Nandyal
- Cost: Free to successful applicants – no tuition, fees, or costs
Note: You will not earn credits or a credential for completing the Entrepreneur Academy.
Requirements to Join the Program
- Be age 18+ by September 1, 2026
- Be a current GHC student (even if you’re about to graduate, you can still participate!)
- Able to maintain academic success in degree program
- Able to commit for one year (September 2026 to August 2027) of in-person and virtual work
- Must have a cell phone, laptop or computer at home, and home internet access (the GHC may be able to help if this is a barrier to your participation)
Program Outcomes
Hands-On Experience
This isn’t just about learning—it’s about doing. You’ll build real products, help launch a real company, and pitch to real investors through a fully immersive, hands-on experience. You’ll be making decisions, solving problems, and seeing the direct impact of your work in real time—just like in a startup.
From Concept to Market
You’ll take a vetted idea and turn it into a market-ready product. Along the way, you’ll learn how to identify customer needs, validate opportunities, and build a business model that works. By the end, you won’t just understand the process—you’ll have lived it from start to finish.
Build and Scale
You’ll learn how to build a company from the ground up—and what it takes to grow it. From product development to gaining your first users, you’ll develop practical skills that move a business forward. You’ll also explore how to adapt, iterate, and scale as new challenges and opportunities arise.
Support and Mentorship
You’ll work closely with experienced entrepreneurs and industry mentors from across the country. They’ve built companies themselves—and will guide you as you build yours. Expect honest feedback, real-world insight, and support when you need it most.
Ready to Apply?
We encourage students of all backgrounds and experiences to apply!
Apply to the Entrepreneur Academy
Applications close on June 15. Successful applicants will be notified by July 15.
Questions?
Any questions on the program or the application process can be emailed to Aaron Coby at aaron.coby@ghc.edu.